Job Summary
Kendrick Recruitment is seeking a hands-on Maintenance & Estate Manager for a boutique hotel set on a private estate near Plettenberg Bay. This is a wonderful lifestyle opportunity for someone who enjoys working outdoors, leading a team and taking pride in a beautifully maintained property on the Garden Route. Reporting to the General Manager, you’ll support the day-to-day running of the hotel and take responsibility for maintenance, infrastructure, grounds and farm operations across the estate. Your work will have a direct impact on the guest experience, from the condition of rooms and public areas to the reliability of the systems that keep the property running. Key responsibilities Support the General Manager with daily hotel operations. Inspect guest rooms, public areas and facilities regularly, and resolve issues before they affect guests. Plan and oversee preventative maintenance, repairs and upgrades across buildings, vehicles, equipment and estate infrastructure. Coordinate contractors and service providers responsible for electrical, plumbing, water, irrigation, generator, solar and pool systems. Oversee the upkeep of gardens, paddocks, orchards, farm areas, access roads and fencing, with attention to both presentation and responsible land management. Lead the maintenance, grounds and farm teams, setting daily priorities, allocating work and checking that it is completed safely and to a high standard. Manage maintenance budgets, purchasing and stock control, and keep asset registers and maintenance records up to date. Contribute to planning for future estate developments and assist with renovations, construction and improvement projects. What we’re looking for Experience overseeing maintenance, facilities or estate operations in a hotel, private estate or comparable property. Practical knowledge of building services, preventative maintenance and contractor management. Experience supervising operational teams, with the ability to plan ahead and respond quickly when priorities change. Confidence managing budgets, purchasing, stock and maintenance records. An eye for detail and an understanding of the standards expected in a five-star hotel. Experience with grounds, farm infrastructure or irrigation would be advantageous.